More Americans are now opting for nonsurgical procedures for a younger look rather than going under the knife for an invasive procedure. While more than 120,000 facelifts were performed in the U.S. in 2012, over 6 million Botox injections were performed. Why has there been such an increase in the popularity of nonsurgical facial rejuvenation procedures like Botox and laser skin resurfacing?
Customized Options
One reason these procedures have become so popular is there are many products and techniques that may be used for a customized approach to a patient’s specific problems. While the most popular, Botox is just one of more than a half-dozen types of dermal fillers. Patients can get fillers for facial scars, to enhance their lips, minimize deep wrinkles that Botox cannot help or restore lost volume in the face.
Quick Results and Minimal Downtime
Unlike invasive procedures, which make require weeks of downtime, nonsurgical facial procedures can be done during a lunch break with no need to take time off work. Cosmetic injections and fillers take less than 15 minutes to administer and the results will appear in a few days. Skin rejuvenation and resurfacing options like laser skin resurfacing and chemical peels may even feel like more of an indulgence than a medical procedure.
Little Commitment
Many people are reluctant to commit to a serious procedure if they still have doubts. Most nonsurgical procedures are temporary, lasting just 6-9 months unless another treatment is requested. Patients who hestitate to commit to a permanent procedure may find injectables and fillers a good way to improve their appearance, whether or not they eventually move forward with surgery.
Common Nonsurgical Facial Treatments
The following are popular nonsurgical facial rejuvenation procedures with minimal downtime or complications.
Injectables
Injectables are easy to receive and may be used to smooth wrinkles and add volume. Botox is popular in the treatment of crow’s feet and wrinkles around the eyebrows and mouth. Juvederm injectable gel can correct deeper wrinkles and folds while restoring volume. Sculptra, Restylane and Radiesse can address lost facial fat or thin lips.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing can treat uneven skin tone, sun damage and fine lines for a refreshed and more youthful appearance. The laser treatment removes the top-most layer of damaged skin, which peels off in a few days to reveal new skin.
Liquid Facelift
A liquid facelift procedure reduces wrinkles and restores lost volume with no incisions or downtime. The procedure takes 20-40 minutes and involves a variety of injectable fillers. Botox may be used to relax dynamic lines (crow’s feet and frown lines), while Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse and/or Sculptra can be used to restore lost volume and further reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
The Choe Center for Facial Plastic Surgery offers several nonsurgical anti-aging procedures to restore confidence and a more youthful appearance. These treatments are designed for younger patients who require minimal intervention as well as patients who wish to avoid surgery. Along with nonsurgical facial procedures, the Choe Center offers fillers for the hands, which often age faster than the rest of the body.
The Choe Center for Facial Plastic Surgery 